Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Lemon Butter Fish Bites Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 42 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings

Description

Tender, bite-sized pieces of white fish pan-fried to a golden crisp and coated in a bright, buttery lemon sauce. This light and flavorful dish is perfect as an appetizer or a quick main course, enhanced with garlic and fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.


Ingredients

Fish and Coating

  • 400 g white fish (cut into bite-sized pieces, firm varieties like cod or tilapia)
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)


Instructions

  1. Season and Coat: Season the fish pieces generously with salt and pepper, then lightly coat them in flour, shaking off any excess. This helps achieve a crispy outer layer when cooking.
  2. Pan-Fry the Fish: Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a pan. Add the coated fish pieces in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan to keep the pieces crispy. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the fish from the pan and set aside.
  3. Prepare Lemon Butter Sauce: In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute, taking care not to burn the garlic.
  4. Add Lemon Juice: Stir in the lemon juice to the melted butter and garlic mixture, combining well to create a bright, tangy sauce.
  5. Toss Fish in Sauce: Return the cooked fish bites to the pan and gently toss them to coat evenly with the lemon butter sauce.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the fish bites and serve warm. This dish pairs nicely with rice, salad, or can be enjoyed as a flavorful starter.

Notes

  • Use a firm white fish such as cod or tilapia for best texture and flavor.
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the crispiness of the fish bites.
  • Serve alongside rice, a fresh salad, or as a delicious appetizer.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Seafood